How a wrestling feud sparked the birth of a new Japanese promotion
In short: In early 2024, a sudden dismissal in the world of Japanese women's wrestling set off a chain reaction. After being fired from Stardom following accusations of poaching talent, promoter Rossy Ogawa launched Dream Star Fighting Marigold, quickly drawing key roster members from rival promotions.
The emergence of Dream Star Fighting Marigold (stylized as Dream StarFighting Marigold) in April 2024 was a direct consequence of internal industry shifts. Rossy Ogawa, a veteran who had previously served as a co-producer for All Japan Women's Pro-Wrestling and a co-founder of World Wonder Ring Stardom, was dismissed from Stardom in February 2024. While management accused Ogawa of poaching talent to form his new venture, Ogawa has denied these claims. Despite the friction, the new promotion immediately gained momentum as several active wrestlers from Stardom and Actwres girl'Z (AWG) defected to the new roster.
The promotion's identity is deeply rooted in Japanese cultural symbolism and wrestling tradition. Ogawa named the company after the Aimyon song "Marigold," drawing on the flower's association with solar strength and the inner light within people. The promotion also honors the "Showa" era traditions established by All Japan Women's Pro-Wrestling through its championship designs. Specifically, the World and United National Championships utilize red and white straps, respectively, mirroring the aesthetic of Stardom's primary titles.
Marigold's competitive structure was solidified during its inaugural event, "Marigold Fields Forever," held on May 20, 2024, at Tokyo's Korakuen Hall. By July 13, 2024, during the Summer Destiny event, the promotion crowned its first champions. Sareee became the inaugural World Champion by defeating Giulia in the main event. Other inaugural titleholders included Miku Aono, the United National Champion, and Natsumi Showzuki, the Super Fly Champion. The promotion also maintains a reported working relationship with WWE, evidenced by Iyo Sky competing at Summer Destiny.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Dream Star Fighting Marigold
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